We present a challenge for those in enduring partnerships who are fans of horror films: Settle in with your partner and view Together. The independent film success of 2025 just made its launch on a streaming platform via Hulu. On the surface, it may seem like conventional body horror, but beneath Together lies a deep examination about our choices in loving each other.
A Directorial Debut Exploring Partnership Complexities
Together is the first full-length movie for director Michael Shanks. It stars Dave Franco and Alison Brie as Millie and Tim, partners that have stayed together for a decade. Having wed in actuality in 2017, the two stars bring a special spark to their portrayals, skillfully embodying both the strengths and weaknesses of a committed partnership.
The story commences when Tim and Millie relocate from the metropolis to the rural area for Millie’s job. A commonly used narrative setup, sure, but that’s largely where the tropes end. Together evolves into as much a psychological exploration of the pair’s relationship as it is a body horror flick.
A Paranormal Spark
While trekking near their new home, a storm hits, and the two tumble into an hole in the earth. After spending the night there and managing to escape, a strange force takes hold of the duo. This force compels a otherworldly bond between them that goes far beyond simple connection.
The complete narrative is a methodically building horror experience, blending elements of dreamlike terrors, gross (but not excessively graphic) body horror, and surprisingly comedic dialogue (sometimes during something disturbing). The director orchestrates these parts seamlessly and wraps them up in a slowly mounting atmosphere of fear.
Layered Performances
A significant portion of Together is only Brie and Franco, and they deftly portray manifold depths to the characters’ relationship. Millie’s confidence and sense of connection is deteriorating due to a emotional and physical gap. Her unspoken irritation of Tim for his hesitance to focus on anything other than his floundering music career gradually emerges.
Tim, on the other hand experiences isolation and cut off by Millie, who’s the impetus they’ve relocated rural and removed from his social circle. He is terrified of the concept of completely losing his sense of self in another person. This fear is amplified by the fact he does not operate a vehicle and is dependent on Millie for mobility.
Shanks’ smartest move in Together refrains from painting either of his characters the obvious villain.
The couple face the sort of issues that arise in most partnerships over a long period. Fundamentally, they continue to care for one another. They share moments of joy, provide solace, and share intimately at times. But under the surface, there’s an persistent current of uncertainty about their bond.
Thematic Depth
While the otherworldly presence in Together represent these concerns of codependency and fully committing to a partner, the symbolism never feels hamfisted or self-important. Instead, these visceral horror elements present a brilliant analogue to the interpersonal storytelling. Both the supernatural and the personal enhance each other in harmony.
A Debated Finale
Together’s ending, which remains unspoiled, has created disagreement on the story's concluding statement about codependent relationships. Reports indicate that unattached audience members have seen the movie as a powerful case for remaining unattached. Conversely, certain partners having disagreements found that the film actually helped them make up.
If you are alone or with a partner, your own reaction could act as a telling indicator of how you think about commitment. Will the conclusion inspire a sense of discomfort and fear, or a uplifting feeling of optimism? Will you see yourself in Tim or Millie and feel frustration, or simply look at your significant other and utter, “I understand that choice”?
No matter your reaction, Together is an experiment you can undertake right now.
Together is available to watch on Hulu as of this moment.
